Gilbert wins race to sign deal

Gilbert won the race to sign an official ball deal with the Celtic League and Celtic Cup tournaments.

Gilbert Sales and Marketing Director, Richard Gray, admitted that serious competitors had also tendered for the rights.

"We are delighted to have been awarded this contract, in the face of some stiff opposition," he said.

"The opportunity presented by the new look Celtic Competitions is tremendously exciting and we look forward to working closely with the twelve teams to maximise the potential offered by our partnership."